Taoiseach Micheál Martin took part in the Global Summit for Health and Prosperity through Immunisation today, joining other world leaders at the event co-hosted by the European Union, the Gates Foundation, and Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance, reports Gov.ie.
Revealing a 20% boost in Ireland’s financial contribution to Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance for the 2026-2030 period, the Taoiseach stated:
“Vaccines have utterly transformed health outcomes across the world. Evidence from the World Health Organisation shows that vaccination is one of the best health investments that money can buy and one of the most impactful tools that we have available to us. My announcement today of a further €21.6 million, a 20% increase in our funding for Gavi, demonstrates Ireland’s commitment to the transformative use of vaccines,” reports Gov.ie.
Emphasising Ireland’s dedication to Official Development Assistance, Tánaiste Simon Harris commented:
“The work of Irish Aid is guided by the principle of reaching the furthest behind first. At a time of so many global challenges, Ireland is proud to increase its support to the vital work of Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance. This support from Ireland will help keep people safe and healthy, protecting them from diseases and illnesses that continue to cost too many lives,” reports Gov.ie.
The purpose of the summit is to generate at least US $9 billion to enable Gavi to expand its mission of providing fair access to vaccines, focusing on immunising children in the world’s poorest regions and enhancing global health resilience. During the 2026-2030 timeframe, Gavi aims to vaccinate 500 million more children, prevent over 8 million deaths, and guard against as many as 150 disease outbreaks.
Ahead of the gathering, the Taoiseach held a meeting with Mr. Bill Gates, Chair of the Gates Foundation, where they explored mutual interests in development cooperation and shared objectives on gender equality, agriculture, nutrition, and global health, particularly in the area of immunisation, reports Gov.ie.
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